SNIPPETS: 2 DECEMBER 2025

TECHNOLOGY

• The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has directed all smartphone manufacturers to mandatorily pre-install the Sanchar Saathi cybersecurity app to strengthen telecom security amid rising cyber fraud. Users cannot delete or disable the app. Manufacturers must comply within 90 days for new devices, while existing devices will receive the app via updates. Compliance reports are due in 120 days. Sanchar Saathi enables IMEI verification, blocking stolen phones, identifying linked mobile numbers, and reporting fraud via the Chakshu feature.
• GPS spoofing incidents have been detected at seven major Indian airports, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Chennai. Spoofers transmit stronger fake GPS signals to mislead aircraft navigation, posing risks to flight path accuracy and landing safety. The DGCA has mandated reporting since November 2023, and the Wireless Monitoring Organisation is tracking interference sources. Although flights were unaffected due to contingency procedures and use of backup navigation aids like ILS and VOR/DME, authorities are enhancing cybersecurity measures.

ENVIRONMENT

• Cyclone Ditwah has caused one of Sri Lanka’s worst natural disasters, with heavy rains, floods, and landslides resulting in over 150 deaths, massive infrastructure damage, and the displacement of more than 200,000 people. India launched Operation Sagar Bandhu, deploying the IAF and Navy to supply humanitarian relief. As the cyclone moves toward Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Andhra Pradesh, IMD warnings highlight the need for preparedness. The operation underscores India’s regional disaster-response commitment and strengthened ties with Sri Lanka.

MISCELLANEOUS ISSUES

• The 4th Kashi Tamil Sangamam focuses on promoting Tamil language learning amid debates over the NEP 2020 three-language formula. The event, launched in 2022, celebrates ancient cultural ties between Tamil Nadu and Kashi through language classes, student exchanges, and a Sage Agastya expedition. Tamil Nadu continues to oppose the three-language policy, while the Centre clarifies no language is imposed. The initiative aligns with Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, enhancing cultural bonding and multilingualism.
• Swedish pole vault star Armand “Mondo” Duplantis and US sprinter Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone were named World Athletics Athletes of the Year in Monaco. Duplantis, 26, set four pole vault records in 2025, went unbeaten in 16 competitions, and cleared 6.30m in Tokyo, breaking his world record for the 14th time. McLaughlin-Levrone ran the second-fastest 400m ever, setting a championship record. Other winners included Kenya’s Emmanuel Wanyonyi, Australia’s Nicola Olyslagers, and Spanish racewalker Maria Perez.